The Lions let Dan Orlovsky walk in free agency during the 2017 offseason after the veteran spent three seasons as the primary backup to quarterback Matthew Stafford. This decision seemed to be a display of faith in Rudock, who was then entering his second season after Detroit made him a sixth-round selection in 2016. However, after enjoying his promotion for one year during the ensuing campaign, this offseason the Lions went out and signed Matt Cassel, a journeyman who was in New England with current GM Bob Quinn and coach Matt Patricia from 2005 to 2008. Cassel surpassed Rudock as the No. 2 signal-caller during the offseason program, significantly reducing his already small chance of seeing the field anytime soon. Read Past Outlooks

ANALYSISRudock has spent his first two seasons in Detroit, but mainly on its practice squad. He did suit up three times this past season, and completed three passes on five attempts of 24 yards and an interception. He will now look to make an impression in Miami to the and earn a spot on the Dolphins 53-man roster.

Cardale Jones might have made a mistake in returning to Ohio State in 2015, but he still has the tools to push for the second round.

Past Fantasy Outlooks

2017

2016

The Lions like what they have in 2016 sixth-round pick Jake Rudock. Not only did Detroit management uncharacteristically carry him as their third quarterback for most of last season in order to prevent another team from signing him off their practice squad, but they then parted ways with veteran Dan Orlovsky in the offseason, signaling their belief in Rudock as their No. 2 quarterback of the future. However, they probably weren't expecting accomplished Miami quarterback Brad Kaaya to fall to the sixth round of this year's draft. After seeing the Lions select Kaaya in the same round they picked him last year, Rudock will now have to fend off the rookie in order to retain the backup role to starter Matthew Stafford -- who hasn't missed a game since 2010.

The Lions used a sixth round pick to grab Rudock in the 2016 NFL Draft, presumably because the Michigan QB played in a pro-style offense at Michigan and evidenced rapid development under the tutelage of former NFL QB and head coach, Jim Harbaugh. However, he is not a lock to make the team's 53-man roster and will need to perform very well to convince Detroit to carry three quarterbacks into the regular season.